southern Rhône varietals on the estate really
successfully because of the nature of the soil
and the weather in the region.
hectares. The Rhône grapes are a fairly new
thing to the area and are definitely increasing
in popularity, they are particularly popular
amongst the younger generation as it makes
for an elegant exciting wine," he says.
contemporary Rhône-style wines and soon
experienced the delight of receiving a best
in class gold medal for our 2007 Val de
Vie Shiraz at the 2009 International Wine
and Spirit Competition. Another gold was
recently won for the 1783 blend at the 2011
International Wine & Spirit Competition.
area wines worldwide fame, have now also
been planted on Val de Vie - turning the estate
into a unique South African model of this
southern region of France.
that it promises? We ask Ryk what a typical
tour of the property would entail and where he
would take us to start.
and the mountains. I would suggest we start
take you down to the lake and the river, then to
the wildlife conservancy, followed by the wine
farms and then finish off at the cellar."
from family fare to more high-end cuisine
dependant on the nature of the guests and
their demands. But if you want more then you
can always slip out to Franschhoek which
is a mere 15km drive away and where there
are a number of restaurants and places to
go out should you wish to venture out of the
boundaries of the estate.
weddings to sensational parties, Val de Vie is
an unrivalled location of choice and supreme
setting for private events. The estate hosts
numerous weddings each year. Bridal couples
are assured that every detail of their big day
will be carefully attended to, from the menu and
hiring to the service staff and transport, leaving
the bride- and-groom-to-be free to enjoy this
special celebration of two lives coming together.
played at your wedding, a memorable form